Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
Some of the city's most expensive and elegant restaurants are in this ultraposh area, where diners go to see and be seen before or after a concert or museum visit. The food tends to be as good as the people-watching.
In the shadow of the golden lyre that tops the Concertgebouw (Concert Building), this culinary institution has been serving musicians and concertgoers for over a century. The classical, dimly lighted Old Dutch interior has dark-wood paneling and giant bouquets of fresh flowers. The menu leans toward tradition, with classic escargot and bisque, and asparagus flamande, when in season. Regulars appreciate the friendly and efficient service.
Join the ladies who lunch at this chic little café on Amsterdam's poshest shopping street, PC Hooftstraat, where white marble tables act as a canvas for picture-perfect plates of avocado toast and the bored blondes who pretend to nibble at them.
If you need a rejuvenating break from art viewing, head to this café across from the Rijksmuseum for coffee and cake, or for lunch on one of the terraces, if the weather is accommodating. An adjacent playground makes this café a good choice for families. Menu highlights include homemade apple pie, traditional pea soup, sandwiches, and Dutch beef croquettes (oblong-shape meatballs) with hand-cut fries. Or try the Dutch poffertjes: small buckwheat pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter. And make sure to check out the bizarre bathrooms in the basement.
Sign up for Travel Tips & News
Thank you for your interest!
